CVE-2017-1103 : Security Advisory and Response

IBM Team Concert (RTC) vulnerability in processing XML data

Understanding CVE-2017-1103

Vulnerability in IBM Team Concert (RTC) due to XML External Entity Injection (XXE) issue

What is CVE-2017-1103?

The vulnerability in IBM Team Concert (RTC) arises from an error in processing XML data, specifically an XML External Entity Injection (XXE) issue. This flaw can lead to a denial-of-service attack, potentially exposing sensitive information or exhausting memory resources.

The Impact of CVE-2017-1103

Risk of disclosure of highly sensitive information
Potential exhaustion of memory resources

Technical Details of CVE-2017-1103

Vulnerability details and affected systems

Vulnerability Description

IBM Team Concert (RTC) susceptible to denial-of-service
Caused by XML External Entity Injection (XXE) error
Remote attackers can exploit to expose sensitive information or consume memory

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Rational Collaborative Lifecycle Management
Vendor: IBM Corporation
Versions: 4.0.7, 5.0, 5.0.1, 5.0.2, 6.0, 6.0.1, 6.0.2, 6.0.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the XXE issue in XML data processing

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the vulnerability

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by IBM
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities
Implement network segmentation to limit access

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software and systems
Conduct security assessments and audits periodically

Patching and Updates

IBM has released patches to address the vulnerability
Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches